Application for change of tenant – HDB E-Services Guide
To ensure compliance with HDB regulations, it is crucial to follow the proper procedures when renting out your HDB flat. One of these procedures includes requesting a change of tenant, which must be approved by HDB before the new tenant can occupy the premises. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough, including the e-services that can help simplify the process.
Getting HDB approval for rental changes
Before you can rent out your flat or change your tenant roster, you must first seek approval from HDB. This applies to both new applications and revisions to current lease agreements, including tenant additions or removals. Any updates to tenant information must be reported within a week of the change. To apply for these changes, you have several options:
- My HDBPage: The most convenient platform for managing tenancy matters. Log in using your Singpass and access the relevant services under “My Flat > Purchased Flat > Renting Out”.
- Mobile@HDB: Access HDB’s mobile application for similar services on the go.
Administrative fee and documentation
There is an $18 administrative fee for every tenant application change. You can choose between paying this fee online or at an AXS Station.
If the landlord is out of the country during the rental period, a Power of Attorney is necessary. The Power of Attorney document needs to be officially certified and filed at the High Court. You must include a copy when submitting your application.
Where owners are mentally incapable of managing their property, a court-appointed Deputy or Donee (authorised by a Lasting Power of Attorney) must handle the submission on their behalf. It is advisable to seek guidance from a solicitor and have them assist with advice and document preparation in such situations.
Application steps for change of tenant
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a change of tenant via HDB e-Services:
- Log in to My HDBPage:
- Navigate to My Flat > Purchased Flat > Renting Out > Application for Change of Tenant.
- Choose the specific service for submitting a new tenant’s details or updating existing tenant details.
- Submit Tenant details:
- Provide the new tenant’s identification details, including their NRIC (for citizens and PRs) or valid work pass (for foreigners).
- Upload supporting documents such as the Power of Attorney.
- Review of application:
- HDB will assess the eligibility of the new tenant based on its guidelines. Tenants must have valid work or residence passes, and the total number of occupants in the flat must not exceed the maximum allowed for the flat type.
- Pay the administrative fee:
- Pay the $18 administrative fee via Visa/Mastercard using the e-services platform, or through an AXS station.
- Confirmation:
- Once HDB approves the change, you will receive a confirmation letter. This can be printed from the My HDBPage > My Flat > Renting Out section, or accessed via the Enquiry on Authorised Tenants service to check and verify registered tenants.
Important considerations
- Renewal of rental approval: If you are renewing an existing tenancy, this is considered a new application and must be assessed based on the most up-to-date policies and regulations.
- Penalty for unauthorised tenancy: Unauthorised subletting or failure to notify HDB of tenant changes may cause penalties, including possible compulsory acquisition of the flat by HDB.
- Tenant validity checks: You can use HDB’s Enquiry on Authorised Tenants service to reassure your tenants that they are properly registered. This service allows you to verify the names of registered tenants at any time.
Power of attorney
Where the flat owner is overseas, it is necessary to submit a Power of Attorney document as part of the application. The document must be certified by a legal professional and lodged with the High Court before submission. Donees named in a Lasting Power of Attorney or Court-appointed Deputies may also apply for a change of tenant on behalf of the flat owner by submitting the documents through HDB’s e-feedback form.
Conclusion
Changing a tenant in your HDB flat is a straightforward process if done through the proper channels. By following the steps outlined above and making use of HDB’s e-services platform, you can manage tenancy changes efficiently while remaining in compliance with the regulations. Always ensure that changes in tenant details are reported promptly to avoid any penalties or disruptions.
For more information or help, visit the official HDB website or log into My HDBPage.
